Friendship Families
In Canada we celebrate a number of different cultural holidays. These holidays are often celebrated with food and cultural festivities.
Canadian families are opening their home so you can join them for a traditional holiday meal!
Next Friendship Families:
Easter Friday, March 29th - Sunday, March 31, 2024
All spaces are taken at the moment. We will reopen when more spaces are available
Registration Closes Monday, March 18, 2024
How Friendship Families Works
1
Sign Up for Friendship Families
Provide us with as much information as you feel comfortable with to provide the best match experience!
Things we like to know:
- Dietary Preferences
- School Attending
- Area of Study
The more dates you are available the better the match!
All spaces are taken at the moment. We will reopen when more spaces are available
2
Get Matched with a Host Family
Your Canadian Host family is excited to welcome YOU into their home!
Please make sure you confirm your attendance!
Things for you to note:
- Hosts have been vetted by H.I.S.
- Their will be a min. of 2 students at each meal
- Transportation will be provided by your host
- Your host will be notified of any dietary restrictions
3
Enjoy a Holiday Meal
It is important to remember that YOU have the privilege of experiencing Canadian traditions. While the hosts will have your dietary restrictions, they will be serving a traditional holiday meal. Canada is a large country and traditions vary from place to place, so each meal will be slightly different. Canadians also do some WEIRD things, different than what you may see in Hollywood as that is largely based in the USA. Click below for more cultural information.
Important Reminders
Key Dates to Remember:
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Canadian host will be opening their homes from Friday, March 29 to Sunday, March 31. Please select all the dates you are available to provide yourself with the best matching opportunities. Prepare to create cherished memories and forge friendships that span the globe.
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Please also note that you will be notified by Thursday, March 21, 2024 of your host family and the date in which you shall gather for a Easter Meal!
Safety and Transportation Matters:
To ensure the safety and comfort of YOU (the students), we kindly request hosts to provide transportation. Your hosts will be in touch with you about transportation.
Capture the Moments:
We’d be thrilled to receive snapshots of your heartwarming Christmas meal shared with your hosts. Along with a brief overview, these photos become a powerful testament to the warmth of Canadian hospitality. Your stories inspire and welcome new families and friends to the HIS community.
Stay in Touch:
For any queries, changes, or updates after registering, please reach out to us at info@helpinginternationalstudents.com
Priyanka*
As an international student living away from family and cultural activities, it means a lot to share a table with local families and get a glimpse of the festivals/events in the host culture!
Jingjing*
I really enjoyed everything that was cooked by the host family. They are by far the most loving and caring people I have come across in Canada. Probably why I went back for Christmas after thanksgiving. I really like talking to them and learning about their culture and sharing about my culture or background in general.
*Names have been changed for student confidentiality
Daniel*
It made me feel accepted in a foreign land. It was my first Christmas celebration outside my hometown and it was a great experience for me.